Are you considering getting a certification to boost your career in 2023? With the job market becoming increasingly competitive, certifications can give you an edge and help you stand out from other candidates. However, choosing the right one that fits your needs and goals can be challenging with so many certifications available.

That’s where we come in. In this blog post, we’ll provide five tips to help you navigate the certification landscape and choose the right one. We’ll guide you through evaluating your career goals, researching industry trends, and assessing the costs and benefits of each certification. 

We aim to help you make an informed decision that will set you on the path to success in 2023 and beyond. 

So, let’s dive in and explore the tips for choosing the proper certification.

• Define Career Goals

Choosing the right certification can be a game-changer for your career. To select the right certification, you should start by evaluating your goals. You need to understand your passion and interests and what field you want to pursue, and how it will impact your life from that point onwards.  

Ask yourself: what do you want to achieve in your career, and what are the necessary steps to get there? 

Suppose you’re interested in making a difference in the world of diversity, equity, and inclusion. In that case, a DEI certificate may be the perfect choice for you. But, it’s essential to consider the long-term implications of your goals and the industry trends that may impact your career path.

Evaluating your career goals and identifying the certifications that align with them is crucial for your success. With the right certificate, you can acquire the skills and knowledge you need to advance in your field and stay ahead of the curve. 

So, don’t rush the decision; carefully assess your goals before choosing a certification.

• Research The Industry

Researching the industry you work in or aspire to work in is important. By exploring industry websites, job postings, and professional organizations, you can better understand the certifications valued in your field.

Speaking with colleagues or mentors in your industry and attending industry conferences or webinars also provides valuable insight into the certifications that you should go for. This research can help you identify certifications to help you stand out in your field and advance in your career.

Whether in healthcare, textile, technology, or another industry, staying up-to-date on your field’s most advantageous certifications is essential for long-term success. Proper certification can enhance your skills and knowledge and demonstrate your commitment to your profession. 

• Analyze Time Commitment

It’s essential to consider the time commitment involved when pursuing a certification. Before committing to a certification, look at your schedule and determine whether you can allocate the necessary time to prepare for and complete it. Don’t commit to certification and leave it halfway; not only will it cost you a fortune, but it will also be an opportunity lost. 

Consider the resources required for preparation, such as study materials and courses, and evaluate whether you have the time and resources to commit to the process. It’s also important to consider any time constraints for the actual certification process, such as the length of the exam or any practical requirements.

Evaluating the time commitment required for the certification can help you make an informed decision and avoid taking on more than you can handle. If you cannot commit the necessary time at this point in your life, don’t worry. There will always be opportunities to pursue certifications in the future.

Remember, it’s essential to prioritize your well-being and maintain a healthy work-life balance. So, evaluate the time commitment of a certification carefully and decide what’s suitable for you and your current circumstances.

• Evaluate Overall Cost

Have you ever considered pursuing a certification only to be deterred by the cost? It’s a common concern, as certifications can come with a significant price tag. However, it’s essential to evaluate the cost to the potential benefits of the certification.

Consider the value the certification can bring to your career, such as increased earning potential or new job opportunities. By evaluating the potential return on investment, you can determine whether the cost is worth it.

It’s also essential to research any financial assistance or reimbursement options that may be available. Your employer may reimburse certification fees or provide training and development programs to offset costs. Additionally, scholarships and grants may be available to help cover the cost.

By creating a budget and plan for the cost of the certification, including any associated preparation materials or courses, you can make an informed decision about whether it’s financially feasible for you now.

Don’t let the cost of a certification hold you back from pursuing your career goals. You can make the right decision by doing a cost-benefit analysis, i.e., considering the cost to the potential benefits and researching financial assistance options.

• Take Recommendations From Industry Professionals

Don’t make the decision to pursue certification on your own. Reach out to industry professionals and mentors for valuable insights and guidance. These individuals have been in your shoes and gained practical industry experience, making them an excellent resource for advice on certifications.

We recommend contacting individuals in your network, such as former supervisors, peers, or colleagues, and asking their thoughts on which certifications are most valuable and respected in the industry. They may be able to provide recommendations on preparation materials and even offer mentorship to help guide you through the certification.

You can network with industry professionals in large-scale networking events and even join clubs and associations to stay in contact with them. Choose a platform that aligns with your certification. They are dedicated to specific industries and can give you complete information about your industry of choice. Clarify all your questions and queries, get feedback, and build meaningful and lucrative relationships with individuals.

Bottom Line

Certifications are a great way to grow professionally; many recruiters today look at them as a bonus when hiring. When choosing a certification, be sure to think about its implications realistically. Keep your goals in mind and make a responsible decision. Talk to industry professionals and ask them for recommendations. 

With careful consideration and a commitment to your professional development, you can make the most of your certification and advance your career.

Studying abroad is an incredible opportunity that comes with its own set of challenges. Adapting to a new environment, dealing with time differences, and staying productive while balancing academics and exploring a new culture can be difficult. Fortunately, technology can help students overcome these obstacles, and a triple portable monitor is one such tool that can be immensely beneficial while studying abroad.

What is a Triple Portable Monitor?

A triple portable monitor is a device that allows users to extend their computer screen to three displays simultaneously. It typically connects to a laptop or desktop computer through a USB-C or HDMI port and enables users to customize the display settings according to their preferences. Some models are lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry around. You can purchase and use such a device at FOPO 15-inch triple monitor.

Advantages of Using a Triple Portable Monitor While Studying Abroad

A triple portable monitor offers numerous benefits while studying abroad. First and foremost, it can help in staying organized and managing your workload more effectively. With three displays, users can have multiple windows open simultaneously, allowing them to tackle various tasks at once. For example, they can have their research notes open on one screen, a writing application on another, and an online resource on the third.

Secondly, a triple portable monitor can enhance productivity by enabling students to multitask more efficiently. With multiple displays, users can switch between tasks quickly without losing their previous work or having to minimize numerous open windows. This can save time and help students complete their work more effectively and swiftly.

Finally, a triple portable monitor can be used for various academic activities, from note-taking in class to conducting research and working on group projects. It can also be helpful for watching instructional videos or attending online lectures, as students can have the video open on one screen while taking notes or working on assignments on the other two.

Potential Drawbacks and Limitations of a Triple Portable Monitor

While a triple portable monitor can be immensely useful, there are some potential drawbacks and limitations to consider. Firstly, the price may be a barrier for some students, as high-quality models can be expensive. Additionally, not all triple portable monitors are lightweight and compact, which can make them challenging to transport.

Tips for Using a Triple Portable Monitor Effectively

To maximize the benefits of a triple portable monitor while studying abroad, students should use it strategically. Firstly, they should prioritize their needs and determine which applications they will use most frequently. They can then organize their displays accordingly, ensuring the most critical applications are in the most accessible locations.

Secondly, users should take advantage of keyboard shortcuts to switch between displays quickly. They also need to customize their display settings to suit their preferences and adjust the brightness to minimize eye strain.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a triple portable monitor can be a valuable and efficient tool for students studying abroad. By enabling multitasking and providing an organized workspace, it can help students manage their workload more effectively and complete their work faster. While it may have some limitations and drawbacks, users can overcome these challenges by prioritizing their needs and utilizing the technology strategically. Overall, a triple portable monitor is an excellent investment for students who want to boost their productivity and achieve academic success while studying abroad.

If you’ve been looking for a way to expand your horizons and gain professional nursing experience in new locations worldwide, working abroad as a nurse could be a perfect choice. Working abroad is a fantastic opportunity to see other countries, cultures, and languages while honing your nursing skills. From understanding how different countries approach patient care to immerse yourself in another culture, there’s no shortage of unique experiences that come with working internationally as a nurse.

1. Go to Nursing School

Before you can work abroad as a nurse, it’s crucial that you first attend nursing school and get the necessary qualifications. While every country has different requirements for what qualifications they accept, many international employers will require at least a bachelor’s degree in nursing.

You should also understand the language spoken in your desired country well. When attending a U.S. nursing school, you can take language courses to help you get up to speed with the lingo. The more fluent you become in the language of your host country, the greater your chances of finding a job abroad.

2. Research Countries and Salaries

Once you have the necessary qualifications, it’s time to start researching different countries and what salaries they offer for nurses. Most international employers will provide a comprehensive package that includes salary, accommodation, transportation, and other benefits. Researching these details beforehand can help you decide which country is right for you and your career. You should also look into different countries’ labor laws and regulations to ensure you’re following all the necessary procedures.

3. Develop Your Network

Networking is vital when it comes to finding the perfect job abroad. It’s essential to start building your network as soon as possible so that you can make connections and open up lines of communication with potential employers. This can be done through attending nursing conferences, joining Facebook groups for international nurses, or even using LinkedIn. The more contacts you have, the better your chances of finding a job abroad. Don’t be afraid to reach out to nurses who’ve already worked abroad and ask them for advice on how to get started.

4. Apply for Jobs Abroad

You’ll need to start applying for jobs abroad as soon as you’re ready. Many employers will require you to submit your resume, cover letter, and other relevant documents over the internet or through a recruiter. Additionally, some countries may require additional qualifications to apply, such as a valid visa or work permit. After you’ve submitted your application, the recruitment process can take some time. Make sure to follow up with any employers you’re interested in and enquire about the status of your application.

5. Prepare for Your Move

When you get a job offer that suits your needs and expectations, it’s time to start preparing for your move. Make sure that you have all the necessary documents, such as a valid visa or work permit, as well as any immunizations that may be required. You should research accommodation options in the area and begin planning how you’ll transport your belongings to your new home. Don’t forget that you may need to open a bank account in the country and get familiar with the local currency.

Nursing is a rewarding and exciting career; working abroad can open up new opportunities for personal growth. With the right qualifications, research, and preparation, you can be on your way to an international nursing adventure!

Glasgow is a vibrant and lively city in the UK, with great study-abroad opportunities and colleges for students to explore. Glasgow is rated as one of the 50 best cities in the world for students. Being a popular student destination, Glasgow has a wide range of student activities to explore, which we will cover in more detail –

Universities like the University of Glasgow, The Glasgow School of Art, and the University of Strathclyde are popular and well-ranked for their coursework, and you will find most students applying to these universities.

Most of the mentioned activities are free of charge or come with student discounts for students to enjoy. Glasgow is a student-friendly city, and you will never run out of things to do!

Here are some popular student activities in Glasgow :

1. Visit Museums and Historical Places –

• George Sq – Located in the centre of the city, George Sq is a must-see for history fans. You can find 12 statues of famous Scottish figures like Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott. Queen Victoria opened the iconic city chambers in  George square in 1888. You can get a free guided tour of the square and take a look at the Victorian Architecture, like the marble staircase and mosaic ceilings.
• Glasgow Cathedral – The Glasgow Cathedral is the only medieval cathedral in Scotland that survived the Protestant Reformation intact and is built on the site where Saint Kentigern is buried. Check out the cathedral for stained glass windows and carved stone bosses.
• Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum – The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum has remarkable collections and exhibitions, with historical artwork like the famous Salvador Dali painting ‘Christ of Saint John of the Cross’. Amongst its 22 galleries, you can also see fossils, dinosaur bones, minerals and furniture from around the world.
• Riverside Museum – The Riverside Museum is a modern museum with a collection of some of the most state-of-the-art collections and interactive displays.

2. Explore the city’s parks – 

• The River Clyde – Glasgow is built around the River Clyde, which is Scotland’s most famous river. It has numerous attractions like Glasgow Science Centre, The Tall Ship, Springfield Quay, and Intu Braehead, and it is the perfect place for a morning walk or a cycle.
• Pollok Country Park – It is the largest park in Glasgow and has been voted as one of the best parks in the UK and Europe.

3. Participate in fitness activities – 

• Emirates Arena – The world-class Emirates Arena has fitness classes, tennis courts, gyms, and indoor play areas, all available for students at a membership.
• Glasgow Climbing Centre –  Interested in rock climbing? Visit the largest indoor roped climbing centre in Scotland and Glasgow Climbing Centre.

4. Try out food and drinks – 

• The west end – The West End is an area rife with bars, shops and restaurants. The famous Ashton Lane has amazing deals on cocktails and great restaurants to choose from, like Ramen Dayo and Ubiquitous Chip. You should also visit Byres Road, which is deemed the main artery flowing through West End.
• Merchant City – Merchant city is famous for gin bars, cocktail lounges and a plethora of restaurants serving international and Scottish cuisine. It is a shopper’s paradise with boutiques and shopping blocks for you to explore.

5. Check out the cultural events – 

• Glasgow international comedy festival
• Glasgow film festival
• Glasgow Mela

Glasgow has a lot and more to offer to the students studying there! Whether you’re interested in arts, history, shopping, pub-hopping or nature, Glasgow has got it all, making it one of the best study-abroad destinations for students worldwide.

You will also find amazing international student housing options in Glasgow, with great locations and a variety of accommodation options.

Amber and you- AmberStudent is an online student accommodation provider that helps you secure a home of choice on your study abroad journey. Having served 80 million students (and counting), AmberStudent is your one-stop shop for all your accommodation needs, with great international student housing options. Amber helps with assistance, booking, and price match guarantees! Check out their Facebook and Instagram and stay connected!

 

Author’s Bio:

Madhura Ballal plays many roles- a cat person, a food lover, an avid marketer, and a postgraduate from the National University of Singapore. You can find her painting, doing yoga, and spending time with her friends when she’s not playing one of the most critical roles that she has taken on- writing.

Nursing is a challenging and rewarding profession, offering a wide range of opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether you’re just starting out in your nursing career or have been working in the field for years, there are many ways to take your career to the next level. In this post, we will explore some practical strategies and tips for taking your nursing career to the next level, so you can continue to grow and thrive in your chosen field.

1. Develop Your Professional Network

Your professional network is a crucial factor in your career advancement, particularly if you are looking to move up the ranks. Developing relationships with other nurses who work in settings similar to yours can be an invaluable resource for learning about new opportunities and staying abreast of industry trends. Joining professional organizations, attending conferences, and becoming active on social media can help you build the network necessary to take your career to the next level.

2. Take Continuing Education Opportunities

The practice of nursing is constantly evolving, and staying current with best practices and industry standards is a must if you want to excel in your career. Whether taking an online course, attending seminars, or signing up for a continuing education program, taking advantage of any opportunity to learn and grow is essential for career advancement.

You can choose an area to specialize in, such as senior care, pediatrics, or mental health. A post masters adult gerontology certificate, for example, can give you the skills and knowledge you need to specialize in caring for elderly patients. Having a specialty can open up many doors and expand your career opportunities.

3. Pursue Leadership Roles

Taking on a leadership role is one way to make your mark in the medical community and gain recognition for your accomplishments. Whether taking charge of a particular project or leading an entire team, having experience in leadership roles can give you the edge when it comes time for promotions or higher-level jobs.

You can also use your leadership skills to get involved in policy-making and advocacy efforts. Joining nursing organizations like the American Nurses Association or National League for Nursing can help you stay informed about legislative issues that impact nurses, as well as provide a platform from which to speak out on important topics.

4. Take Advantage of Technology

Technology is rapidly changing the face of healthcare, and nurses must stay ahead of the curve to remain competitive. From electronic medical records to mobile applications, nurses should be taking advantage of any opportunity to learn how to use new technology tools and stay current with industry standards. You can also take advantage of online resources such as the American Nurses Association website, which offers educational videos and webinars designed to help nurses stay up-to-date on the latest developments in healthcare.

5. Explore Different Settings

Diversity and experience are critical when it comes to advancing your career. Taking on a new nursing position in a different setting can help you develop new skills, expand your knowledge and gain invaluable experience that could lead to more significant opportunities down the road. Whether switching from an acute care hospital to a long-term care facility or taking on a research role at a university, exploring different settings opens up a world of possibilities and gives you the edge regarding promotions.

The nursing profession is constantly changing, and staying ahead of the curve is vital to remain competitive. Taking advantage of continuing education opportunities, building a professional network, and exploring different settings can help you advance your career faster than ever before. With dedication and hard work, you can reach your goals and become a leader in your field.

Despite its endless challenges, the nursing career is very rewarding, especially due to several available opportunities for growth. Most people enter the nursing career by obtaining a graduate degree in nursing, allowing them to practice as registered nurses. While being an RN is fulfilling, you should consider advancing your career by enrolling in a master’s program.

Unlike entry programs, choosing the right master’s program in nursing is tasking. Nursing schools offer several programs, making it challenging for many people to find the right fit. Consider the following tips to find a suitable nursing program.

1. Evaluate the programs’ curriculum

You should begin by identifying your preferred area of specialization, be it psychiatric or pediatric nursing. If you’ve decided to proceed with a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program, visit the program’s website to ensure that its curriculum matches your interests. Similarly, if you are interested in neonatal or pediatric nursing, find out if the program offers specialized curriculums.

You should also decide if you want a clinical-focused or research-oriented master’s program. Some courses are research focused, while others adopt hands-on experience. Lastly, you should evaluate the program length. Typical master’s degree programs last between 18 and 24 months. You should choose a program that aligns with your schedule. 

2. Check the programs’ admission requirements

You should inquire from the admission team about your chosen programs’ admission requirements. The admission team can provide enough information, including financial aid and campus life. Make inquiries on the following:

• What are key admission deadlines?
• How is student life on campus?
• Which tests are mandatory?
• What’s included in the curriculum?
• Should applicants have healthcare work experience?
• How many clinical hours should students complete to graduate?
• What job prospects are available after graduating?

Asking these questions can help you decide if the program is worth pursuing.

3. Consider your future goals

Your chosen master’s program should help you achieve future career goals. For instance, if you dream of becoming a clinical nurse specialist or certified nurse practitioner, you should choose aligning programs. Remember that you need licensing and board certification to practice as an advanced practice nurse.

MSN programs are specifically tailored and focus on a specific area of practice. For instance, you can become a mental health nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or family nurse practitioner. You should clearly set your goals before enrolling in the program.

4. Find out if financial aid is available

There are several financial aids available for post-graduate students taking different programs. You might be eligible for state grants, federal loans, and other scholarships, depending on your qualifications. You can also qualify for private awards from the nursing school.

5. Consider the location

Returning to school as an adult student is daunting, especially if you have work and family responsibilities. Fortunately, most programs have introduced online study options that accommodate students with busy schedules. However, nursing programs include clinicals, which require physical attendance. You should find nursing programs that offer hybrid learning options and are close to your home.

Endnote

Choosing the right master’s nursing program isn’t an easy task. Even with a predetermined course and goals, you should consider many other factors before pursuing a postgraduate nursing degree.

For 5 days in February, I was thankful to be able to experience the beautiful region of the Peloponnese.

From early morning breakfasts and bus rides, to city night explorations, comfy hotel evenings, and days filled with imagining the rich history and archeological sites of the past, the Peloponnese was unforgettable.

Due to the amazing experience I had, I was eager to not only reflect on my own individual self and experiential discoveries but to hear how the week impacted my CYA peers.

At the end of the trip I spoke to three CYA students about their experiences in Peloponnese.

Grace McIntosh is a Junior at Cornell studying Hotel administration with a concentration in Human Resources. Maddie Mulligan is a junior at Hamilton College studying Creative Writing and Classics. Michaela Glasgow is a junior at Pacific Lutheran University studying biology; although she is in her last year as an undergrad as she will attend WSU pharmacy school in the fall of 2023. My name is Yazmine Gnanaratnam and I attend Brandeis University as a junior studying Sociology with a minor in Psychology.

I asked two questions regarding the Peloponnese trip, below I share the answers of both myself and my peers.

“Is there anything that stood out to you or was particularly significant for you on this trip? What was your favorite part of the experience?” 

Yazmine: Simply having the opportunity to continue exploring a new part of the world, let alone Greece and the Peloponeese was amazing. While seeing the archeological sites, from driving through the mountains, or seeing the pretty views of the cities we stayed in, it was hard to wrap my head around how many amazing things we were experiencing! My favourite part was Nafplio. I couldn’t stop looking at the sunset and sea, and all I wanted to do was explore this beautiful place! Seeing clear blue water for the first time was amazing! My favorite part of Nafplio was the cacti. I love plants and one thing I always wanted to see was a natural non-planted cactus in person. I didn’t realize that they grew in Greece so seeing them was very exciting!

Grace: “As a hospitality major, I liked visiting the different family businesses (honey farm, ouzo distillery, olive oil press). It was interesting to see how they each approached the growth of their business a little differently. I loved getting to hear their stories and the respect they had for their craft and their ancestors who started the business. A highlight of the trip was visiting Palamidi Fortress in Nafplio! It was so pretty and it was an opportunity to imagine a slower pace of life.”

 

Maddie: “I learn so much from the professors at the sights, something about being at the places I learn about at school really changes how I perceive their history! The professors were very knowledgeable and engaging in a way that made every sight fun! Professor Karavas did a demonstration in the ancient Nemean stadium of how the ancient Greeks would have wrestled and competed in the Pangration! My favorite part of the trip was for sure swimming in Nafplio with my friends! It was surreal to be in the beautiful blue water we kept seeing from our windows on the bus.  I think it was such a bonding experience for all of us.”

Michaela: “While the entire Peloponnese trip was packed with countless hours of fun and adventure, what stood out to me was the beauty of Nafplio, especially from the top of the Palamidi Fortress. The rich history of the castle itself in addition to the indescribable view of the city was an experience unlike anything I’ve ever had. It was so serene and beautiful that I would have never imagined I’d be in a place like that, let alone whilst pursuing an education.”

There is no doubt that those who set foot in Peloponnese were able to leave with new experiences, new connections, and new perspectives. I hope that you also get to experience a place that allows for new individual and experiential discoveries!

 

[Article by CYA Spring ’23 student and MediaLab intern Yazmine Gnanaratnam]